Lynch/Oz

"You may find Lynch's mysterious work even more mysterious after the screening," director Philippe promised before the screening in Kalovy Vary, and he was right. The ninety-five-minute documentary offers a lucid and insightful whirlwind of theories that, from the perspective of scholars and avid fans of Lynch's work, discuss various thematic, stylistic, and pop culture parallels to the classic film that first took us "over the rainbow" in 1939. This uncommon reading of Lynch's poetics is extremely refreshing, especially for cinephiles, and although the documentary occasionally strays too far into the purely personal and subjective feelings of the narrators, it doesn't run out of supporting arguments and doesn't lose its power as an exciting ode to the endless process of creative inspiration. It connects the entire body of cinema into an intertwined cycle that is a joy to think about and unravel. Especially in the interpretation of Philippe and the various thought-provoking analysts, among whom stand out David Lowery (director of The Green Knight) with his sense of defining directorial hallmarks and especially John Waters, who even half a century after making Pink Flamingos has not lost his sharp wit and eloquence. After watching it, you immediately want to revisit most of the films or series discussed and find new things in them, following the documentary's example. And that in itself is a clear creative triumph. (07/18/2022)

Alexandre O. Philippe delivers another documentary delicacy for cinephiles and again with a new, brilliantly functional concept, where six filmmakers and experts in six chapters freely analyse the influence of 1939's The Wizard of Oz on the world filmography and especially the work of David Lynch. It is packed with information, interesting interpretations, personal feelings and, of course, genuine viewer enthusiasm. What else can you ask for? [KVIFF 2022] (07/19/2022)